North Park Blocks

Historic Urban Oasis

Dating back to 1869, the North Park Blocks are among Portland's oldest park sites, creating a green corridor from West Burnside Street up to Northwest Glisan Street. Spanning about 3.11 acres, this verdant retreat is maintained by Portland Parks & Recreation and welcomes visitors daily from 5AM to 9PM - ideal for early morning joggers or evening strollers seeking a moment of calm.

Rich History

The park's story begins with Captain John H. Couch, who generously donated the land to Portland in 1865. The space was officially designated for park use in 1869 and has been evolving with the city ever since.

In a charming reflection of bygone eras, the early 1900s saw the park divided into separate playgrounds for boys and girls. Tennis courts appeared in 1920, and over the decades, the space has continued to transform alongside the changing needs of Portlanders.

Natural Features

Walk through the North Park Blocks and you'll discover yourself beneath the impressive canopy of Big Leaf Maples, Black Locusts, and American Elms. Some of these magnificent trees rank among Portland's largest, creating a natural ceiling that offers welcome shade on sunny days and a lush green backdrop year-round.

The park is a natural connector between downtown Portland, Old Town, and the Pearl District. Its tree-lined pathways connect some of the city's most vibrant neighborhoods.

Modern Renaissance

The blocks have experienced something of a revival in recent years, as upscale condos and creative commercial spaces have popped up in the surrounding area. In 2002, the park received a noteworthy addition: "Da Tung and Xi'an Bao Bao" - a full-size bronze reproduction of Shang dynasty elephant statues donated by Chinese foundry owner Huo Baozhu.

This large elephant statue has become a local landmark, where people often snap photos or pause to look at the striking figure.

Recreation Amenities

If you're feeling active, head to the basketball court at the northern end near Glisan Street, or try your hand at the bocce ball court for something a bit more leisurely.

Families will appreciate the fenced playground with climbing structures and slides, however it's best enjoyed during daylight hours. Across the park, benches line the paved walkways, offering perfect spots to rest under the shade of those magnificent old trees.

Art and Culture

Art has found a natural home in the North Park Blocks. The striking sculpture "Memory 99" by Lee Kelly stands proudly in front of the Pacific Northwest College of Art (PNCA).

The college itself, housed in the beautifully renovated historic 511 Federal Building, adds a creative energy to the area. Keep an eye out for events like Art in the Pearl, which brings local artists and their work into this outdoor gallery.

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Food and Refreshments

Worked up an appetite? The southern end near Burnside Street hosts a collection of food carts serving up diverse culinary options. This popular spot makes it easy to grab a bite while continuing to enjoy the park atmosphere.

Future Development

The story of the North Park Blocks is still being written. Current plans aim to extend the park further north as part of the Broadway Corridor development project. This expansion will create additional open space and incorporate the Green Loop - a proposed path connecting pedestrians and cyclists to different parts of the city.